Unboxing the Oculus Rift DK2

We just got the Oculus Rift Development Kit 2 (DK2) in the lab, and we're getting ready to test it out. But first, let's look at what's in the box of this new, second-generation, 1080p (sort of; the resolution is 960 by 1080 for each eye), OLED, visual motion-tracking version of Oculus VR's head-mounted display.

The DK2 is much more modest and streamlined than the first Oculus Rift. Instead of its own plastic case, it comes in a sturdy cardboard box with a carrying handle that serves the same function, but lacks some of the protection the plastic case offered. The DK2 itself is smaller and sleeker than the first development kit, with a much more curved profile compared to the "tupperware with a phablet in it" style of the original Oculus Rift.

The new headset is actually about an inch thicker and deeper than the first Oculus Rift, though its shape distributes its volume evenly and comfortably. It weighs slightly more at 14.7 ounces compared to the first development kit's 12.6 ounces, but when you factor in the weights of the cables and the first Rift's control box, both weigh in at the same 1 pound, 2 ounces.

Oculus VR removed the control box that connected the original development kit to a computer. Instead, the long cable running from the headset (now covered in braided cloth instead of rubber) ends at USB and HDMI connectors. A small box about a foot up from the cables holds the power port for use with the included adapter, and Oculus once again included several international adapters in addition to the standard U.S. power plug.

While the original Oculus used a completely internal motion sensing system, the DK2 adds a visual head-tracking element. The kit comes with a camera that follows the headset to more accurately determine movement, in addition to the headset's internal accelerometers.

We'll be putting the Oculus Rift DK2 through its paces all this week, so keep an eye on PCMag.com for our full write-up of just how well this newest head-mounted display works, and if it's a worthy successor to the original Oculus Rift.

Will Greenwald has been covering consumer technology for more than six years, and has served on the editorial staffs of CNET.com, Sound & Vision, and Maximum PC. Since graduating from Syracuse University in 2005, Will has been an active technology journalist both online and in print. His work and analysis has been seen in GamePro, Tested.com, Geek.com, and several other publications. He currently covers consumer electronics in the PCMag.com labs, focusing on Blu-ray players, set-top boxes, and other home theater equipment.
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